Newcastle United eyeing new goalkeeper as reports from Portugal link them with Iker Casillas.

Benitez has recently recalled Karl Darlow to his starting XI and is pleased with his contributions in the last two games after taking over from Rob Elliot.

Darlow’s display at Stamford Bridge even won praise from Chelsea and Belgium star Eden Hazard who described him as a “brilliant goalkeeper”.

However, the Newcastle Chronicle understands that Benitez is still keen to keep the competition in the goalie department up to a high standard by bringing in a third senior man, and he will also look to loan out Freddie Woodman to an EFL club with the youngster making it clear he needs game-time.

Newcastle are 13th in terms of goals conceded and Benitez has always prided himself on having a tight defence.

Liverpool, another Premier League giant who are in need of a stable No 1, are reported to have been monitoring Casillas’ situation at Porto.

However, they are unlikely to move in January, as his ineligibility for the Champions League will likely put them off.

Casillas is one of the most successful footballers in history and one of only three men to win the Champions League, World Cup and Euros as captain.